MISA Malawi demands arrest of "MCP" supporters who assaulted journalist
MISA Malawi condemns assault on journalist during MBS Complex opening, demands justice for Francis Mzindiko, writes Winston Mwale.
Blantyre, Malawi - In a press release issued Thursday, MISA Malawi strongly condemned the assault on Times Group photojournalist Francis Mzindiko during the official opening of the Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS) Complex in Blantyre on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, writes Winston Mwale.
The media body’s chairperson, Golden Matonga, demanded the swift arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators, who are believed to be supporters of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
Mzindiko recounted the incident, stating that he was attacked by a group of over 15 individuals wearing the trademark green suits of MCP youths.
The assault occurred while President Dr Lazarus Chakwera was touring the MBS Complex.
The “MCP” supporters accused Mzindiko of filming a clash between MCP and UTM supporters, leading to the physical assault.
They forcibly removed the memory card from Mzindiko's camera and deleted the footage from his computer.
Additionally, they caused significant damage to the camera.
Expressing their outrage at the assault, MISA Malawi issued a statement vehemently condemning the attack on journalism and demanding immediate action from the police to apprehend all those involved.
The organization called on the leadership of the MCP to cooperate fully with the authorities, urging them to provide any pertinent information that could aid in the investigation.
Following the incident, MISA Malawi reached out to the MCP, and Ezekiel Ching'oma, Acting Publicity Secretary of the party, confirmed that a statement addressing the matter would be issued soon.
The Malawi Police Service Public Relations Office promised to provide updates on the ongoing investigation.
MISA Malawi emphasized the importance of capturing footage or images of public events, including presidential engagements, as a legitimate activity that should not be met with violence.
The organization called on the government to translate its commitment to promoting and safeguarding press freedom, as expressed by Moses Kunkuyu, Minister of Information and Digitalization, into tangible actions.
This includes the immediate arrest and prosecution of the “MCP” supporters responsible for assaulting Mzindiko.
The media watchdog further called on the government to take decisive measures in prosecuting individuals who commit crimes against journalists, stressing the paramount importance of eliminating all forms of impunity.
Signed by Golden Matonga, Chairperson of MISA Malawi, the statement serves as a resolute call for justice and an end to attacks on media professionals in the country.